Week in History: April 25 - 30
Events that occurred during the week of April 25th through April 30th in South Florida's history.
OTD: April 26, 1928 - Tamiami Trail Opens
On April 26, 1928, Miami and Tampa were joined when the 284-mile Tamiami Trail (US 41), officially opened. Built between 1915 and 1928, it was a major engineering achievement that carved a path through the wetlands of the Everglades. The road opened the region to travel, tourism, and development, playing a key role in the growth of South Florida.
Today, the Trail runs through Everglades National Park and offers a unique window into the area’s ecosystem, with stops like Shark Valley providing access to wildlife and scenic landscapes. While it remains an important transportation route, the Trail has also impacted natural water flow in the Everglades, prompting ongoing restoration efforts to better balance infrastructure with environmental preservation.
OTD: April 26, 1983 - Miami Dolphins Draft Quarterback Dan Marino
On Tuesday, April 26, 1983, the Miami Dolphins selected Dan Marino in the NFL Draft. The Dolphins were coming off a Super Bowl loss against the Washington Redskins the prior season which meant that they were selecting second to last in the first round of the 1983 draft. Don Shula was pleasantly surprised that Dan Marino was there for the taking allowing Dolphin Fans to watch Dan the Man "pick a guy and let it fly" for 17 seasons.
OTD: April 29, 1925 - The City of Coral Gables Incorporated
On April 29, 1925, Coral Gables incorporated as a city. As it was nicknamed, The City Beautiful, was guided by the vision of developer and poet George Merrick.
OTD: April 30, 1920 - First Non-Stop Flight from Miami to New York City
On April 30, 1920, the first "non-stop" flight from Miami to New York City took place. The airplane, named Miss Miami, was a Aero Limited hydro airplane and made the 1,539 mile flight in 15 hours and 35 minutes flying time.
OTD: April 30, 1936 - Merger Forms Central Baptist Church
On April 30, 1936, the First and Temple Baptist Churches merged to organize as the Central Baptist Church. The new entity has conducted service out of the downtown location at 500 NE First Avenue since this consolidation.
Brickell Avenue Neighborhood Book
Get your signed copy of the Brickell Avenue Neighborhood Book by ordering online on the Miami History Blog website. The book shares a pictorial history of the Brickell neighborhood from 1870 through the 1980s. Read more about the contents of this book and purchase your copy by clicking on the button below. Scroll to the bottom of the page to purchase your signed copy online.
I had no idea that Central Baptist Church continues to provide services. I've always thought it to be long-closed.